After undergoing a “miracle” operation in America in February, the eight-year-old is taking huge strides towards leading a normal life.

Astonishingly, the pupil at Holy Family Primary School in Holbrooks has taken up martial arts, is learning to swim, and is doing PE with his classmates for the first time.

He can now run for short distances and is hoping to swap his trike for a proper bicycle soon.

Jake told the Telegraph: “I just love being able to run around and play hide and seek, and tig, with my friends.

“Before the operation I couldn’t do anything.

“I don’t like physio but it’s worth it. Next year I will be able to run and tackle everyone.”

Jake’s parents Jolene and Dave are overjoyed with his progress.

Jolene, 29, said: “A few weeks ago at the park he ran for the first time.

“It was only a few steps but he was so pleased with himself. I just stood there crying.

“It’s really emotional to see how he’s coming along.

“He’s not in any discomfort and doesn’t walk on his tiptoes or drag his feet like he used to.

“We’re extremely proud of him.”

The £45,000 operation at St Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri involved cutting away damaged nerves, and was paid for by generous fundraisers after an appeal in the Telegraph.

In fact, people were so moved by Jake’s story that they raised £60,000, leaving the family with enough money to pay for private physiotherapy sessions for a year, and a return trip to the States if needed.

The operation has a 100 per cent success rate to date.

Jolene said: “After the operation it was hard for him. They took away his walking frame and he basically had to learn to walk all over again.

“At first he was really disheartened but he then just threw himself into it. It’s been a hard schedule of physiotherapy four times a week – three private and one NHS – an exercise programme and stretching.

“If you were to watch him from afar it looks like he is staggering – he still doesn’t walk like you or I, but he is walking independently, and that’s the most important thing.